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Florida's Route 1 is a beautiful way to reach Key West

February 15, 2012 12:00 AM

If you find yourself in Florida with a hankering to take in the beautiful, tropical scenery, U.S. Route 1 might just be your best bet. The historic highway runs along the state's eastern seaboard from the very top all the way to Key West. When you get to the bottom of the state, you can swing by John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for an exotic ending to a scenic road trip.

Along Route 1, you'll be treated to a display of Florida's natural beauty and get the chance to pass through Miami, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach and Daytona Beach as well as a number of the Sunshine State's small towns. When you reach the keys, nature will really begin to replace man-made sights.

The Coral Reef State Park is not a conventional wildlife destination. It is actually an underwater display of nature, the first of its kind in America. To fully enjoy the park, you might want to get your scuba certification before you head out on your road trip. It's also a good idea to make sure you're up-to-date with car maintenance, and check brakes and tire pressure to ensure the trip will be a safe one.